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City of Moorhead - City Council Meeting Jul 13, 2026
Published: Jul 13, 2026
Metro Fibernet LLC Granted Fiber Optic Franchise
The council conducted a public hearing and approved the first reading of Ordinance 2026-05, granting a non-exclusive fiber optic franchise to Metro Fibernet LLC. Metro Fibernet intends to build a fiber optic network within the community and use the public right-of-way for this purpose. City charter requires companies to obtain a franchise for such activities. While Metro Fibernet is not offering video programming services, thus not requiring a franchise fee, the city will collect permitting fees to cover the impact on the right-of-way and associated city costs.
Essentia Health Clinic Renovation Project Approved with Tax Exemption
The council opened a public hearing for a Renaissance Zone property tax exemption request by Innov LLC for a community commercial renovation project at 730 Center Avenue. Mr. Lysath presented the project for Essentia Health, which plans to renovate the former Wells Fargo building into a full-service healthcare clinic. The renovation will include significant exterior improvements, parking lot upgrades, and private utilities, enhancing the Center Avenue corridor. Essentia Health will initially occupy 11,000-14,000 square feet on the first floor, offering family medicine, urgent care, radiology, laboratory services, a pharmacy, and physical therapy. The remaining 21,000 square feet on the second and third floors are slated for future renovation. This project is situated within Morehead's Renaissance Zone, complements existing businesses, supports the neighborhood, and aligns with downtown revitalization goals by increasing activity and providing essential healthcare services. Essentia Health's investment is estimated at $8.6 million, with a per-square-foot investment of $245, exceeding the $150 qualification for a 15-year exemption. Council Member White noted the project's integration with ongoing downtown improvements, such as bike and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, and praised Essentia Health's commitment to being a good neighbor, citing their maintenance of the parking lot after a recent 5K event. The council approved the resolution for the tax exemption.
Domestic Violence Survivor Critiques Systemic Failures, Calls for Change
Jane Groonerberg, a survivor of domestic violence, addressed the council to speak about the inadequacies of the system in addressing psychological violence and advocating for systemic change. She highlighted her personal and professional experience, having worked in victim advocacy and legal services for 20 years. Groonerberg stated that cases not involving physical or sexual violence are often dismissed, leading victims to be labeled as 'crazy.' She argued that the psychological violence of offenders is rarely considered in charging decisions and that the system prioritizes 'playing the system' over the needs of victims and the community. She recounted a personal experience of being left for dead by her husband and emphasized that the system failed her and Sahar Ramirez, believing Sahar's death was due to extreme violence, not suicide. Groonerberg called for a system that addresses the root causes of abusive behavior rather than just punishing actions, quoting Edmund Burke on the necessity of good people acting to prevent evil.
City Employees Honored for Daring Rescue During Duplex Fire
The Morehead City Council recognized two city employees, Assistant Building Official DJ Stefen and Building Inspector Plan Reviewer Blake Krueger, with the Morehead Fire Department Citizen Recognition Award for their courageous actions in saving occupants from a burning duplex. On May 11th, 2026, they observed a fire and, without emergency responders present, alerted and evacuated residents from the burning building and adjacent units before the fire spread. Their actions prevented life-threatening danger and minimized property damage. The council and fire chief expressed deep gratitude for their selfless service, highlighting their embodiment of the city's core values.
Council Approves Special Assessments for Unpaid Penalties and Abatements
The council held a public hearing regarding special assessments for unpaid administrative penalties and abatements from 2025. Christy Lasheski presented the staff recommendation for approval, covering unpaid charges for property maintenance, rental registration, tree removals, and unfounded alarms. A total of 102 properties were initially notified. Assessments generally have a one-year repayment period, except for petitioned tree removals, which have a five-year term. The city utilizes an administrative citation and penalty system, with most property owners complying before fines are levied. The process involves verification, compliance timelines, and escalating penalties for non-compliance, including civil penalties and abatement costs. Invoices and reminder notices are sent before assessments are finalized. The city's goal is compliance, with flexibility offered for timeline adjustments. One objection was received for snow and ice removal services at 14024th Street South, where the property had been sold after the abatement. The council discussed the complexities of special assessments for properties that have been tax-forfeited or sold, particularly concerning responsibility for costs incurred when the county or state owned the property. Ultimately, the resolution to approve the special assessments was adopted.
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The Moorhead News archive
School Board Meeting 2026-07-20
City of Moorhead - Human Rights Commission Meeting Jul 15, 2026
City of Moorhead - Planning Commission Jul 14, 2026
City of Moorhead - Economic Development Authority Meeting Jul 06, 2026
City of Moorhead - Charter Commission Meeting - June 30, 2026 Jun 30, 2026
City of Moorhead - City Council Meeting Jun 22, 2026
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